USRE29117E - Automatic spray dispenser with integrated test apparatus - Google Patents

Automatic spray dispenser with integrated test apparatus Download PDF

Info

Publication number
USRE29117E
USRE29117E US05/615,814 US61581475A USRE29117E US RE29117 E USRE29117 E US RE29117E US 61581475 A US61581475 A US 61581475A US RE29117 E USRE29117 E US RE29117E
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
motor
iadd
iaddend
drive
switch
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
US05/615,814
Inventor
Edward Sahajian
Gottfried Maurer
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US00379373A external-priority patent/US3837532A/en
Application filed filed Critical
Priority to US05/615,814 priority Critical patent/USRE29117E/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of USRE29117E publication Critical patent/USRE29117E/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D83/00Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents
    • B65D83/14Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant
    • B65D83/16Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant characterised by the actuating means
    • B65D83/26Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant characterised by the actuating means operating automatically, e.g. periodically
    • B65D83/262Containers or packages with special means for dispensing contents for delivery of liquid or semi-liquid contents by internal gaseous pressure, i.e. aerosol containers comprising propellant for a product delivered by a propellant characterised by the actuating means operating automatically, e.g. periodically by clockwork, motor, electric or magnetic means operating without repeated human input
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01MCATCHING, TRAPPING OR SCARING OF ANIMALS; APPARATUS FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF NOXIOUS ANIMALS OR NOXIOUS PLANTS
    • A01M1/00Stationary means for catching or killing insects
    • A01M1/20Poisoning, narcotising, or burning insects
    • A01M1/2022Poisoning or narcotising insects by vaporising an insecticide
    • A01M1/2027Poisoning or narcotising insects by vaporising an insecticide without heating
    • A01M1/2055Holders or dispensers for solid, gelified or impregnated insecticide, e.g. volatile blocks or impregnated pads
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01HELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H43/00Time or time-programme switches providing a choice of time-intervals for executing one or more switching actions and automatically terminating their operations after the programme is completed
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H03ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY
    • H03KPULSE TECHNIQUE
    • H03K17/00Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking
    • H03K17/28Modifications for introducing a time delay before switching

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to automatic spray dispensers for regularly releasing a burst of spray from an aerosol container and more particularly, to such a dispenser which is battery operated and adapted for periodic replacement of the aerosol contained.
  • aerosol spray dispensers have been provided for regularly dispensing bursts of spray.
  • the spray may be selected to provide a pleasant smell, to deodorize or to dispense a germicidal medicinal material into the surrounding area.
  • These dispensers disperse the materials in spray from within an enclosed area such as public rest rooms, restaurants, hospital sick rooms and in other busy areas.
  • a burst of spray is released from the aerosol container every 10 to 15 minutes and so 100 to 200 spray bursts are delivered during a day. Since the capacity of a large size aerosol can is several thousand bursts, the can must be replaced with a full can every few weeks. Of course, more frequent replacement is required where the bursts of spray occur more frequently and/or relatively small aerosol cans are used.
  • the spray dispenser is located in a public place, it is important that it be located beyond the reach of the passerby so that it cannot be easily tampered with.
  • the dispenser should be monitored frequently to see that it is working and of course, periodically the aerosol can has to be replaced with a full can.
  • the dispenser is battery operated, it is desirable to check the battery and replace it if it does not test satisfactory.
  • the battery operated spray dispensers for releasing regular bursts of spray from an aerosol container have been serviced by an attendent who would periodically retrieve the dispenser from its out-of-reach location, replace the aerosol can with a full can, test the batteries, actuate the spray mechanism to see that it works and then return the dispenser to its out-of-reach location.
  • this procedure is time consuming and unless the spray interval is precisely known, it often occurs that either the aerosol can will be empty sometime before it is replaced or it will be replaced while containing a substantial amount of the material.
  • the monitor can not simply observe operation of the dispenser to ascertain that it is working except by observing it for fifteen minutes and this, of course, wastes a lot of time.
  • an automatic aerosol spray dispenser which is preferably battery driven is provided with a light actuated test system so that the monitor need only direct a flashlight beam to a photocell in the test system to initiate tests which reveal that the mechanism is or is not functioning, that the battery has or does not have sufficient life for continued operation and that the container is or is not near empty.
  • These conditions are revealed to the monitor by indicators which are part of the test system and which he can view.
  • these tests can be quickly made and the results obtained by the monitor who does not have to physically reach the dispenser or remove it from its remote location.
  • the tests can be made by the monitor immediately and he does not have to wait while the dispenser goes through a cycle such as a relatively long fifteen minute cycle.
  • the dispenser includes a drive motor and a mechanism that actuates the aerosol can valve at regular intervals each initiated by a brief motor drive cycle during which the motor is energized to release a burst of spray from the can.
  • the motor is energized first through a timer circuit that establishes the interval between bursts of spray and then the motor is energized through a motor drive switch.
  • the integrated test apparatus includes a light actuated photocell that the monitor can illuminate with a flashlight and which produces an electrical output for controlling a test switch that is electrically connected in parallel with the motor drive switch.
  • the test switch closes and remains closed as long as the photocell is illuminated and so the monitor need only direct his flashlight beam to the photocell to energize the motor long enough for the motor to complete a drive cycle. Since the drive cycle typically takes only a few seconds, this is accomplished very quickly and if the mechanism is working correctly, the monitor will observe a burst of spray from the dispenser.
  • the test apparatus also includes a battery test circuit connected to the battery and controlling a battery indicator light which can be energized by the test circuit when the same test switch is closed by the output of the photocell.
  • the integrated test apparatus includes a counter driven by the motor.
  • the counter When the counter reaches a given count, it closes a count switch that energizes another light indicator, the container indicator.
  • the count number at which the counter switch closes is pre-set in view of the size of the can and the amount of material dispensed with each spray burst. For example, it may be set to turn on the container light when 90 percent of the contents of the can have been dispensed.
  • the container indicator light when energized causes a continual drain on the battery. This drain can be minimized by using a flashing light and flasher control such that the container light flashes only with sufficient frequency to attract the attention of the monitor.
  • FIG. 1 is an electro-mechanical diagram of a suitable automatic spray dispenser having integrated therewith, test apparatus in accordance with the present invention, the actuating mechanism of the dispenser being shown at a position during the motor drive cycle just before a burst of spray is released;
  • FIG. 2 illustrates the same actuating mechanism during the motor drive cycle immediately following release of a burst of spray from the aerosol container as an aid to understanding the functioning of the complete system.
  • FIG. 1 there is shown a portion of a typical battery powered automatic spray dispenser.
  • the parts of a conventional spray dispenser which are shown in this figure include the actuator mechanism 1 which mechanically actuates the metering valve 2 on an aerosol container 3.
  • This actuating mechanism is substantially the same as the mechanism described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,584,766 entitled "Spray Dispenser Having a Capaciter Discharge Timer,” which issued June 15, 1971 to C. M. Hart, et al.
  • the actuating mechanism 1 is driven by a battery powered motor 4 having two input terminals 5 and 6. Terminal 5 is connected directly to the negative terminal of battery 7 and terminal 6 of the motor connects to the timer circuit 10 via line 11 and also connects to the motor switch 12 via line 13.
  • the motor is energized either through line 11 or line 13 when the system is operative.
  • the system becomes operative when the switch 15 is closed connecting the positive terminal of the battery to ground.
  • Both the timer circuit 10 and the motor switch 12 connect to ground and so either of these can apply ground potential or substantially ground potential to terminal 6 of the motor to energize the motor.
  • the valve actuating mechanism 1 and the timer circuit 10 may be constructed and operate substantially as described in the above mentioned U.S. Pat. No. 3,584,766.
  • the dispenser housing 22 supports an aerosol can or container 24 having a metering valve 25 at the top end of the can.
  • the valve 15 is engaged by the actuator mechanism 1 having the actuator 28 continuously engaging the valve.
  • the primary lever 30 is operative on the actuator 28 to operate the valve and a secondary lever 31 operates the motor switch 12.
  • a tension spring 32 urges the arms 30 and 31 toward one another and the motor 4 drives a cam arrangement 38 coupled to the motor drive shaft 36.
  • Primary and secondary cam surfaces 40 and 42 of the cam arrangement engage the primary and secondary arms 30 and 31, respectively to affect a periodic actuation and release of the aerosol container valve 25.
  • the cams 40 and 42 lightly engage the arms 30 and 31 and each cam includes an abrupt drop-off point for allowing the associated arm to suddenly move inward toward the drive shaft 36 and so the cams initially move the arms from each other until the cam falls are encountered by the arms at which time both arms move rapidly inward.
  • the primary arm 30 pivots at bracket 46 attached to the housing by rivet 50.
  • the free end of this arm includes a flange 52 engaging the cam surface 40 and in addition, the arm is pivotally secured to the upper end of actuator 28 by rivet 54 so that upward movement of the actuator is accomplished when the primary lever pivots clockwise.
  • the actuator 28 may slide in a vertical track attached to the housing and the actuator is retained in position in the track by rivet 60 that is attached to the housing and on which the actuator slides.
  • the secondary arm 31 pivots on rivet 62 attached to the housing and one extremity of this arm includes the flange 64 riding on cam 42.
  • the bias of the spring 32 is much stronger than the metering valve spring.
  • the motor drive shaft 36 rotates cam 38 in the direction of arrow 49
  • the flange 52 of arm 30 abruptly drops off cam 40 at step 41, while flange 64 of arm 31 is still riding on cam 42.
  • arm 30 abruptly and quickly drives the actuator 28 downward to depress the spray valve 2 releasing a burst of spray from the aerosol container.
  • flange 64 of arm 31 falls off of cam 42 causing the arm 31 to pivot clockwise closing switch 12.
  • the actuator mechanism 1 appears as shown in FIG. 2 and the motor is energized via switch 12.
  • the motor was energized via the timer circuit 10.
  • the motor continues driving in the direction of arrow 49 until the actuator mechanism is again in the position shown in FIG. 1 with the motor switch 12 open.
  • the timer circuit 10 will have recharged and will no longer energize the motor via line 11 and so the motor will stop having completed a drive cycle.
  • the drive cycle just described is initiated by the timer circuit 10.
  • This timer circuit is an electronic RC time constant unit which may have selectable units to provide spray release intervals of 15, 30, or 60 minutes.
  • the capacitance in the timer circuit trips a mono-stable transistor which in turn actuates another transistor which acts as a control switch for the motor coupling the motor terminal 6 to ground via line 11.
  • the motor then runs until the drive cycle is completed.
  • transistor 58 is controlled by the charge on timing capacitor 60 in an RC circuit consisting of the timing resistor 62, capacitor 60, current limiting resistor 64 and the transistor 58.
  • This transistor acts as a blocking oscillator or monostable transistor and controls the switching transistor 66 that connects line 11 to ground when it conducts.
  • Transistor 74 thus functions as an over driven amplifier in that it goes from cut-off to a full conduction and so operates as a switch.
  • transistor 58 When the capacitor 60 is sufficiently discharged, transistor 58 is turned on and it turns on the switching transistor 66 which connects terminal 6 of the motor to ground via line 11 energizing the motor. Thereafter, the motor drive cycle, is as already described.
  • the particular embodiments of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 consists of the test apparatus 70 which is integrated with the mechanism and circuits of the dispenser actuator 1, timer circuit 10 and the motor and battery circuits.
  • the testing apparatus 70 is intended for quick, remote monitoring of the dispenser to check the actuation, the state of the battery and the amount of spray material left in the aerosol container. Testing of the actuation and the state of the battery are initiated by the monitor simultaneously.
  • the testing apparatus which accommodates this includes a photocell sensor 71 that responds to light 72 produced by for example, a flashlight operated by the monitor. The sensor produces an output which actuates electronic switch 73 so that the switch closes connecting line 74 to ground and since this line connects directly to line 13, the motor terminal 6 is connected to ground energizing the motor.
  • the monitor by illuminating the photocell sensor 71 with light from a flashlight, the monitor causes the motor to be energized and so initiates a motor drive cycle even while the timer circuit 10 is shut off and does not energize the motor via line 11.
  • the monitor can witness actuation of the spray dispenser immediately and he does not have to await a full spray interval to do this.
  • the battery tester circuit 75 measures the battery voltage across a load in comparison with voltage regulated by a Zener diode in the tester.
  • the battery tester is connected across the battery terminals when switch 15, the dispenser on-off switch, is turned on. If the battery voltage is higher than the regulated voltage, the battery indicator lamp 76 lights up provided that line 77 from the tester to line 74 is grounded. Conversely, if the battery voltage is lower than the regulated voltage, the lamp 76 does not light.
  • illumination of the photocell sensor 71 closes switch 73 applying ground to line 77 to reveal the voltage state of the battery.
  • the testing circuit 70 may also include a counter 79 driven from the motor drive shaft 36 via mechanical coupling 80.
  • the counter may have a count capacity of any number of counts, for example, 6,000 and it can be pre-set to any number of counts from 0 to 6,000.
  • a mechanical output 81 from the counter closes counter switch 82 which applies ground potential to one input 83 of flasher control circuit 84.
  • the other input 85 of circuit 84 connects to the negative terminal of the battery.
  • the output of the flasher control circuit connects to one terminal of the container indicating lamp 86 and the other terminal of the lamp connects to line 83.
  • the flasher control circuit may be a bi-stable transistor unit which drives the lamp 86. This intermittent action reduces the battery power consumption and at the same time makes the signal more conspicuous to the monitor.
  • test circuit or test system integrated with a known conventional automatic, battery operated aerosol spray dispenser.
  • This test circuit greatly facilitates monitoring the dispenser because the monitor can check the operation of the dispenser, the state of the battery and the contents of the aerosol container very quickly from the remote location by simply shining a flashlight on the dispenser and observing the reaction.
  • the construction, operation and use of this test circuit is described herein, integrated with a known conventional dispenser by way of illustration rather than limitation. It should be clearly understood that the testing apparatus circuits and method described herein can be adapted readily in whole or in part for other spray dispensers having a different actuating mechanisms and/or timer controls deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention, as set forth in the appended claims.

Abstract

Automatic aerosol spray apparatus which contains an aerosol container with a mechanically actuated spray valve, includes a drive motor for driving a mechanism which actuates the valve at regular intervals each initiated by a relatively brief motor drive cycle during which the motor is energized fist through a timer circuit and then through a motor drive switch is improved by light actuated testing apparatus integrated therewith. The testing apparatus includes a light actuated photocell which produces an electrical output for controlling a test switch electrically connected in parallel with the motor drive switch so that the spray apparatus is tested by illuminating the photocell causing the motor to drive through a cycle and actuate the aerosol spray. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus is energized by a battery and a battery test circuit is connected to the battery and also to a battery test indicator which is activated by the test switch. Thus, by illuminating the photocell, the spray apparatus is actuated and the battery test indicator is operated for observation.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to automatic spray dispensers for regularly releasing a burst of spray from an aerosol container and more particularly, to such a dispenser which is battery operated and adapted for periodic replacement of the aerosol contained.
Heretofore, aerosol spray dispensers have been provided for regularly dispensing bursts of spray. The spray may be selected to provide a pleasant smell, to deodorize or to dispense a germicidal medicinal material into the surrounding area. These dispensers disperse the materials in spray from within an enclosed area such as public rest rooms, restaurants, hospital sick rooms and in other busy areas. In a typical use, a burst of spray is released from the aerosol container every 10 to 15 minutes and so 100 to 200 spray bursts are delivered during a day. Since the capacity of a large size aerosol can is several thousand bursts, the can must be replaced with a full can every few weeks. Of course, more frequent replacement is required where the bursts of spray occur more frequently and/or relatively small aerosol cans are used.
Where the spray dispenser is located in a public place, it is important that it be located beyond the reach of the passerby so that it cannot be easily tampered with. However, the dispenser should be monitored frequently to see that it is working and of course, periodically the aerosol can has to be replaced with a full can. Furthermore, where the dispenser is battery operated, it is desirable to check the battery and replace it if it does not test satisfactory.
Heretofore, the battery operated spray dispensers for releasing regular bursts of spray from an aerosol container have been serviced by an attendent who would periodically retrieve the dispenser from its out-of-reach location, replace the aerosol can with a full can, test the batteries, actuate the spray mechanism to see that it works and then return the dispenser to its out-of-reach location. Clearly, this procedure is time consuming and unless the spray interval is precisely known, it often occurs that either the aerosol can will be empty sometime before it is replaced or it will be replaced while containing a substantial amount of the material. Also, where the interval between bursts of spray is on the order of fifteen minutes or so, the monitor can not simply observe operation of the dispenser to ascertain that it is working except by observing it for fifteen minutes and this, of course, wastes a lot of time.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an automatic aerosol spray dispenser which is preferably battery driven is provided with a light actuated test system so that the monitor need only direct a flashlight beam to a photocell in the test system to initiate tests which reveal that the mechanism is or is not functioning, that the battery has or does not have sufficient life for continued operation and that the container is or is not near empty. These conditions are revealed to the monitor by indicators which are part of the test system and which he can view. Thus, these tests can be quickly made and the results obtained by the monitor who does not have to physically reach the dispenser or remove it from its remote location. Furthermore, the tests can be made by the monitor immediately and he does not have to wait while the dispenser goes through a cycle such as a relatively long fifteen minute cycle.
The dispenser includes a drive motor and a mechanism that actuates the aerosol can valve at regular intervals each initiated by a brief motor drive cycle during which the motor is energized to release a burst of spray from the can. During the motor drive cycle, the motor is energized first through a timer circuit that establishes the interval between bursts of spray and then the motor is energized through a motor drive switch. The integrated test apparatus includes a light actuated photocell that the monitor can illuminate with a flashlight and which produces an electrical output for controlling a test switch that is electrically connected in parallel with the motor drive switch. Thus, when the photocell is illuminated, the test switch closes and remains closed as long as the photocell is illuminated and so the monitor need only direct his flashlight beam to the photocell to energize the motor long enough for the motor to complete a drive cycle. Since the drive cycle typically takes only a few seconds, this is accomplished very quickly and if the mechanism is working correctly, the monitor will observe a burst of spray from the dispenser.
The test apparatus also includes a battery test circuit connected to the battery and controlling a battery indicator light which can be energized by the test circuit when the same test switch is closed by the output of the photocell. Thus, by the simple action of directing a flashlight beam to a photocell on the remotely located dispenser, the monitor can quickly check the actuating mechanism and the batteries in the dispenser.
In accordance with another feature of the present invention, the integrated test apparatus includes a counter driven by the motor. When the counter reaches a given count, it closes a count switch that energizes another light indicator, the container indicator. The count number at which the counter switch closes is pre-set in view of the size of the can and the amount of material dispensed with each spray burst. For example, it may be set to turn on the container light when 90 percent of the contents of the can have been dispensed.
The container indicator light when energized causes a continual drain on the battery. This drain can be minimized by using a flashing light and flasher control such that the container light flashes only with sufficient frequency to attract the attention of the monitor.
It is a primary object of the present invention to provide integrated remotely actuated test apparatus for an automatic spray dispenser.
It is a further object to provide such apparatus whereby a monitor can remotely quickly test the dispenser actuating mechanism and need not wait while the dispenser goes through a complete spray interval.
It is another object of the present invention to provide integrated with an automatic spray dispenser a remotely controlled battery tester for testing and revealing the condition of the batteries in the dispenser.
It is a further object in conjunction with the foregoing objects to provide means for remotely testing the dispenser actuating mechanism and batteries simultaneously following a simple interrogating action by a monitor.
It is another object to provide means integrated with an automatic spray dispenser mechanism for revealing the degree of emptiness of the aerosol container therein.
Other objects and features of the present invention will be apparent in view of the description of the embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is an electro-mechanical diagram of a suitable automatic spray dispenser having integrated therewith, test apparatus in accordance with the present invention, the actuating mechanism of the dispenser being shown at a position during the motor drive cycle just before a burst of spray is released; and
FIG. 2 illustrates the same actuating mechanism during the motor drive cycle immediately following release of a burst of spray from the aerosol container as an aid to understanding the functioning of the complete system.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
Referring first to FIG. 1 there is shown a portion of a typical battery powered automatic spray dispenser. The parts of a conventional spray dispenser which are shown in this figure include the actuator mechanism 1 which mechanically actuates the metering valve 2 on an aerosol container 3. This actuating mechanism is substantially the same as the mechanism described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,584,766 entitled "Spray Dispenser Having a Capaciter Discharge Timer," which issued June 15, 1971 to C. M. Hart, et al. The actuating mechanism 1 is driven by a battery powered motor 4 having two input terminals 5 and 6. Terminal 5 is connected directly to the negative terminal of battery 7 and terminal 6 of the motor connects to the timer circuit 10 via line 11 and also connects to the motor switch 12 via line 13. Thus, the motor is energized either through line 11 or line 13 when the system is operative. The system becomes operative when the switch 15 is closed connecting the positive terminal of the battery to ground. Both the timer circuit 10 and the motor switch 12 connect to ground and so either of these can apply ground potential or substantially ground potential to terminal 6 of the motor to energize the motor.
The valve actuating mechanism 1 and the timer circuit 10 may be constructed and operate substantially as described in the above mentioned U.S. Pat. No. 3,584,766. The dispenser housing 22 supports an aerosol can or container 24 having a metering valve 25 at the top end of the can. The valve 15 is engaged by the actuator mechanism 1 having the actuator 28 continuously engaging the valve. The primary lever 30 is operative on the actuator 28 to operate the valve and a secondary lever 31 operates the motor switch 12. A tension spring 32 urges the arms 30 and 31 toward one another and the motor 4 drives a cam arrangement 38 coupled to the motor drive shaft 36. Primary and secondary cam surfaces 40 and 42 of the cam arrangement engage the primary and secondary arms 30 and 31, respectively to affect a periodic actuation and release of the aerosol container valve 25.
The cams 40 and 42 lightly engage the arms 30 and 31 and each cam includes an abrupt drop-off point for allowing the associated arm to suddenly move inward toward the drive shaft 36 and so the cams initially move the arms from each other until the cam falls are encountered by the arms at which time both arms move rapidly inward. The primary arm 30 pivots at bracket 46 attached to the housing by rivet 50. The free end of this arm includes a flange 52 engaging the cam surface 40 and in addition, the arm is pivotally secured to the upper end of actuator 28 by rivet 54 so that upward movement of the actuator is accomplished when the primary lever pivots clockwise. In its motion, the actuator 28 may slide in a vertical track attached to the housing and the actuator is retained in position in the track by rivet 60 that is attached to the housing and on which the actuator slides.
The secondary arm 31 pivots on rivet 62 attached to the housing and one extremity of this arm includes the flange 64 riding on cam 42.
In operation, the bias of the spring 32 is much stronger than the metering valve spring. Thus, when the motor drive shaft 36 rotates cam 38 in the direction of arrow 49, the flange 52 of arm 30 abruptly drops off cam 40 at step 41, while flange 64 of arm 31 is still riding on cam 42. As a result, arm 30 abruptly and quickly drives the actuator 28 downward to depress the spray valve 2 releasing a burst of spray from the aerosol container. As rotation of the cam 38 continues, very shortly after release of the spray, flange 64 of arm 31 falls off of cam 42 causing the arm 31 to pivot clockwise closing switch 12. At this point in the motor drive cycle, the actuator mechanism 1 appears as shown in FIG. 2 and the motor is energized via switch 12. Up to this point in the drive cycle, the motor was energized via the timer circuit 10. The motor continues driving in the direction of arrow 49 until the actuator mechanism is again in the position shown in FIG. 1 with the motor switch 12 open. By this time, the timer circuit 10 will have recharged and will no longer energize the motor via line 11 and so the motor will stop having completed a drive cycle.
The drive cycle just described is initiated by the timer circuit 10. This timer circuit is an electronic RC time constant unit which may have selectable units to provide spray release intervals of 15, 30, or 60 minutes. When the time interval has elapsed, the capacitance in the timer circuit trips a mono-stable transistor which in turn actuates another transistor which acts as a control switch for the motor coupling the motor terminal 6 to ground via line 11. The motor then runs until the drive cycle is completed. In the timer, transistor 58 is controlled by the charge on timing capacitor 60 in an RC circuit consisting of the timing resistor 62, capacitor 60, current limiting resistor 64 and the transistor 58. This transistor acts as a blocking oscillator or monostable transistor and controls the switching transistor 66 that connects line 11 to ground when it conducts. Transistor 74 thus functions as an over driven amplifier in that it goes from cut-off to a full conduction and so operates as a switch.
In operation, while capacitor 60 holds sufficient charge, neither of the transistors 58 or 66 are conducting and since the actuator mechanism 1 is in the position shown in FIG. 1, there is no energy to the motor. This is the condition just following a spray burst when the motor drives the actuator to the position shown in FIG. 2. During the interval, charge leaks from the capacitor 60 through resistor 64 and transistor 58 at a rate depending upon the time constant RC of the circuit. As mentioned, this time constant may be 15, 30, or 60 minutes and establishes the interval between bursts of spray.
When the capacitor 60 is sufficiently discharged, transistor 58 is turned on and it turns on the switching transistor 66 which connects terminal 6 of the motor to ground via line 11 energizing the motor. Thereafter, the motor drive cycle, is as already described.
The particular embodiments of the present invention shown in FIG. 1 consists of the test apparatus 70 which is integrated with the mechanism and circuits of the dispenser actuator 1, timer circuit 10 and the motor and battery circuits. The testing apparatus 70 is intended for quick, remote monitoring of the dispenser to check the actuation, the state of the battery and the amount of spray material left in the aerosol container. Testing of the actuation and the state of the battery are initiated by the monitor simultaneously. The testing apparatus which accommodates this includes a photocell sensor 71 that responds to light 72 produced by for example, a flashlight operated by the monitor. The sensor produces an output which actuates electronic switch 73 so that the switch closes connecting line 74 to ground and since this line connects directly to line 13, the motor terminal 6 is connected to ground energizing the motor. Thus, by illuminating the photocell sensor 71 with light from a flashlight, the monitor causes the motor to be energized and so initiates a motor drive cycle even while the timer circuit 10 is shut off and does not energize the motor via line 11. Thus, the monitor can witness actuation of the spray dispenser immediately and he does not have to await a full spray interval to do this.
The battery tester circuit 75 measures the battery voltage across a load in comparison with voltage regulated by a Zener diode in the tester. Thus, the battery tester is connected across the battery terminals when switch 15, the dispenser on-off switch, is turned on. If the battery voltage is higher than the regulated voltage, the battery indicator lamp 76 lights up provided that line 77 from the tester to line 74 is grounded. Conversely, if the battery voltage is lower than the regulated voltage, the lamp 76 does not light. Here again, illumination of the photocell sensor 71 closes switch 73 applying ground to line 77 to reveal the voltage state of the battery.
The testing circuit 70 may also include a counter 79 driven from the motor drive shaft 36 via mechanical coupling 80. The counter may have a count capacity of any number of counts, for example, 6,000 and it can be pre-set to any number of counts from 0 to 6,000. As soon as the counter has reached its pre-set count, a mechanical output 81 from the counter closes counter switch 82 which applies ground potential to one input 83 of flasher control circuit 84. The other input 85 of circuit 84 connects to the negative terminal of the battery. The output of the flasher control circuit connects to one terminal of the container indicating lamp 86 and the other terminal of the lamp connects to line 83. Thus, when the pre-set count is reached, switch 82 is closed and the container indicator lamp 86 flashes on and off revealing to the monitor the relative amount of material left in the aerosol container. The flasher control circuit may be a bi-stable transistor unit which drives the lamp 86. This intermittent action reduces the battery power consumption and at the same time makes the signal more conspicuous to the monitor.
The embodiment of the present invention described herein represents the best known use of the invention. It includes a test circuit or test system integrated with a known conventional automatic, battery operated aerosol spray dispenser. This test circuit greatly facilitates monitoring the dispenser because the monitor can check the operation of the dispenser, the state of the battery and the contents of the aerosol container very quickly from the remote location by simply shining a flashlight on the dispenser and observing the reaction. The construction, operation and use of this test circuit is described herein, integrated with a known conventional dispenser by way of illustration rather than limitation. It should be clearly understood that the testing apparatus circuits and method described herein can be adapted readily in whole or in part for other spray dispensers having a different actuating mechanisms and/or timer controls deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention, as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (10)

The invention claimed is:
1. In automatic spray apparatus for use with an aerosol container having a .[.metering.]. valve mechanism which includes a spray valve moveable to an operative position to release a spray burst of material from the container at regular intervals, an electrical .[.motor.]. drive .Iadd.means .Iaddend.for cyclically moving the spray valve to the operative position, a source of electrical energy for the drive .Iadd.means .Iaddend..[.motor, a motor switch actuated by the motor drive for coupling the source to the motor during a portion of the motor drive cycle.]. and a timer .Iadd.means .Iaddend.for controlling energization of the .[.motor.]. .Iadd.drive means at regular intervals, the improvement comprising a system .Iaddend..[., means.]. for testing said apparatus .Iadd.and .Iaddend.comprising,
a light actuated photocell producing an electrical output, and
.Iadd.means, .Iaddend..[.a test switch in parallel with the motor switch.]. controlled by the photocell output, .Iadd.for energizing said electrical drive means to cause said spray valve to move to an operative position, .Iaddend.
whereby .Iadd.the apparatus which may be located in an out-of-reach location, may be tested for operativeness by illuminating the photocell, as with a flashlight, to cause the drive means to move .Iaddend..[.illumination of the photocell causes the motor to drive through a cycle moving.]. the spray valve to the operative position.
2. Automatic spray apparatus as in claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.11 .Iaddend.wherein, the photocell output causes the test switch to close, energizing the .Iadd.drive means for as .Iaddend..[.motor for so.]. long as the photocell is illuminated.
3. Automatic spray apparatus as in claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.11 .Iaddend.wherein, the .Iadd.drive means .Iaddend..[.motor drive cycle is a fraction of the regular interval, the motor.]. is energized through the .Iadd.drive .Iaddend..[.motor.]. switch during a fraction of the .[.motor.]. drive cycle, and the .Iadd.drive means .Iaddend..[.motor.]. is energized through the timer .Iadd.means .Iaddend..[.circuit.]. during a fraction of the .[.motor.]. drive cycle.
4. Automatic spray apparatus as in claim 3 wherein, testing by illuminating the photocell can be commenced before or after a .[.motor.]. drive cycle.
5. Automatic spray apparatus as in claim 4 wherein, the timer .Iadd.means .Iaddend.operation schedules the regular intervals and the .[.motor.]. drive cycles, and said timer schedules are not altered by said testing.
6. Automatic spray apparatus as in claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.11 .Iaddend.wherein, the source is a battery, the .Iadd.drive means .Iaddend..[.motor.]. has two input terminals, one terminal of the battery connects directly to one terminal of the .Iadd.drive means .[.motor.]., the other terminal of the battery connects to a common voltage point, and the test switch connects the other terminal of the .Iadd.drive means .Iaddend..[.motor.]. to the common voltage point when the photocell is illuminated.
7. Automatic spray apparatus as in claim 6 wherein, the other terminal of the .Iadd.drive means .Iaddend..[.motor.]. connects to the common voltage point through the .Iadd.drive .Iaddend..[.motor.]. switch or through the test switch or through the timer .Iadd.means .Iaddend..[.circuit.]..
8. Automatic spray apparatus as in claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.11 .Iaddend.wherein, at least part of the apparatus is contained in a housing and the other terminal of the battery is grounded to the housing, whereby the .Iadd.drive means .Iaddend..[.motor.]. is energized by connection of the other terminal thereof to ground through the .Iadd.drive .Iaddend..[.motor.]. switch or the test switch or through the timer .Iadd.means .Iaddend..[.circuit.]..
9. Automatic spray apparatus as in claim .[.1.]..Iadd.11 .Iaddend.wherein, the source is a battery, the .Iadd.drive means .Iaddend..[.motor.]. test circuit is electrically coupled to the battery, a battery test indicator is coupled to the battery test circuit, and energization of the battery test indicator is controlled by the test switch.
10. Automatic spray apparatus as in claim 9 and further including, a counter .[.driven by the motor.]. for counting .[.motor.]. drive cycles, and a container indicator coupled to the output of the counter, whereby the container indicator is actuated when a predetermined number of .[.motor.]. drive cycles .Iadd.is .Iaddend..[.are.]. counted. .Iadd.11. Automatic spray apparatus as in claim 1 wherein, said automatic spray apparatus includes a drive switch actuated by the drive means for coupling the source to the drive means during a portion of the drive cycle, and said energizing means includes a test switch in parallel with the drive switch. .Iaddend..Iadd.12. Automatic spray apparatus as in claim 1 and further including, a counter means for counting drive cycles, and a container indicator coupled to the output of said counter means, whereby the container indicator is actuated when a predetermined number of drive cycles is counted. .Iaddend.
US05/615,814 1973-07-16 1975-09-22 Automatic spray dispenser with integrated test apparatus Expired - Lifetime USRE29117E (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US05/615,814 USRE29117E (en) 1973-07-16 1975-09-22 Automatic spray dispenser with integrated test apparatus

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US00379373A US3837532A (en) 1973-07-16 1973-07-16 Automatic spray dispenser with integrated test apparatus
US05/615,814 USRE29117E (en) 1973-07-16 1975-09-22 Automatic spray dispenser with integrated test apparatus

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US00379373A Reissue US3837532A (en) 1973-07-16 1973-07-16 Automatic spray dispenser with integrated test apparatus

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
USRE29117E true USRE29117E (en) 1977-01-18

Family

ID=27008595

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US05/615,814 Expired - Lifetime USRE29117E (en) 1973-07-16 1975-09-22 Automatic spray dispenser with integrated test apparatus

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (1) USRE29117E (en)

Cited By (19)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5038972A (en) * 1989-09-26 1991-08-13 Technical Concepts, Inc. Metered aerosol fragrance dispensing mechanism
US5249718A (en) * 1992-03-16 1993-10-05 Technical Concepts Automatic pump-type spray dispenser
US5392768A (en) * 1991-03-05 1995-02-28 Aradigm Method and apparatus for releasing a controlled amount of aerosol medication over a selectable time interval
US5394866A (en) * 1991-03-05 1995-03-07 Aradigm Corporation Automatic aerosol medication delivery system and methods
USD361375S (en) 1994-08-17 1995-08-15 Amrep, Inc. Aerosol dispensing cabinet
US5450336A (en) * 1991-03-05 1995-09-12 Aradigm Corporation Method for correcting the drift offset of a transducer
US5520166A (en) * 1991-03-05 1996-05-28 Aradigm Corporation Medication cassette for an automatic aerosol medication delivery system
US5772074A (en) * 1995-03-31 1998-06-30 Waterbury Companies, Inc. Device and method for indicating the dispensing of a predetermined amount of a material
US5826570A (en) * 1991-03-05 1998-10-27 Aradigm Corporation Delivery of aerosol medications for inspiration
US6517009B2 (en) 1997-12-25 2003-02-11 Gotit Ltd. Automatic spray dispenser
US20040155056A1 (en) * 2000-01-25 2004-08-12 Gotit Ltd. Spray dispenser
US20060076366A1 (en) * 2004-10-12 2006-04-13 Furner Paul E Compact spray device
US20080023497A1 (en) * 2005-01-10 2008-01-31 Hyso Technology Llc Elongated nozzle configured for use with automated dispensers such as door handle sprayers and the like
US20080266800A1 (en) * 2007-04-30 2008-10-30 Lankston Robert J Heat sink with surface-formed vapor chamber base
US20090045218A1 (en) * 2007-08-16 2009-02-19 Helf Thomas A Overcap for a spray device
US7878371B2 (en) 2008-09-04 2011-02-01 Hyso Technology Llc Controllable door handle sanitizer
US8061562B2 (en) 2004-10-12 2011-11-22 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Compact spray device
US20140191732A1 (en) * 2013-01-09 2014-07-10 Richtek Technology Corp. Bootstrap circuit and method for controlling the same
US9108782B2 (en) 2012-10-15 2015-08-18 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Dispensing systems with improved sensing capabilities

Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3007080A (en) * 1959-03-31 1961-10-31 Acme Wire Company Control apparatus including condition sensing means

Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3007080A (en) * 1959-03-31 1961-10-31 Acme Wire Company Control apparatus including condition sensing means

Cited By (35)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
USRE34847E (en) * 1989-09-26 1995-02-07 Technical Concepts, Inc. Metered aerosol fragrance dispensing mechanism
US5038972A (en) * 1989-09-26 1991-08-13 Technical Concepts, Inc. Metered aerosol fragrance dispensing mechanism
US5450336A (en) * 1991-03-05 1995-09-12 Aradigm Corporation Method for correcting the drift offset of a transducer
US5392768A (en) * 1991-03-05 1995-02-28 Aradigm Method and apparatus for releasing a controlled amount of aerosol medication over a selectable time interval
US5394866A (en) * 1991-03-05 1995-03-07 Aradigm Corporation Automatic aerosol medication delivery system and methods
US5520166A (en) * 1991-03-05 1996-05-28 Aradigm Corporation Medication cassette for an automatic aerosol medication delivery system
US5608647A (en) * 1991-03-05 1997-03-04 Aradigm Corporation Method for releasing controlled amount of aerosol medication
US5755218A (en) * 1991-03-05 1998-05-26 Aradigm Corporation Method and apparatus for releasing a controlled amount of aerosol medication over a selectable time interval
US5826570A (en) * 1991-03-05 1998-10-27 Aradigm Corporation Delivery of aerosol medications for inspiration
US5249718A (en) * 1992-03-16 1993-10-05 Technical Concepts Automatic pump-type spray dispenser
USD361375S (en) 1994-08-17 1995-08-15 Amrep, Inc. Aerosol dispensing cabinet
US5772074A (en) * 1995-03-31 1998-06-30 Waterbury Companies, Inc. Device and method for indicating the dispensing of a predetermined amount of a material
US6517009B2 (en) 1997-12-25 2003-02-11 Gotit Ltd. Automatic spray dispenser
US6540155B1 (en) 1997-12-25 2003-04-01 Gotit Ltd. Automatic spray dispenser
US20040155056A1 (en) * 2000-01-25 2004-08-12 Gotit Ltd. Spray dispenser
US8061562B2 (en) 2004-10-12 2011-11-22 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Compact spray device
US20060076366A1 (en) * 2004-10-12 2006-04-13 Furner Paul E Compact spray device
US10011419B2 (en) 2004-10-12 2018-07-03 S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Compact spray device
US9457951B2 (en) 2004-10-12 2016-10-04 S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Compact spray device
US20100243673A1 (en) * 2004-10-12 2010-09-30 Furner Paul E Compact Spray Device
US20100243674A1 (en) * 2004-10-12 2010-09-30 Furner Paul E Compact Spray Device
US7837065B2 (en) 2004-10-12 2010-11-23 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Compact spray device
US8887954B2 (en) 2004-10-12 2014-11-18 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Compact spray device
US7954667B2 (en) 2004-10-12 2011-06-07 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Compact spray device
US8678233B2 (en) 2004-10-12 2014-03-25 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Compact spray device
US8091734B2 (en) 2004-10-12 2012-01-10 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Compact spray device
US8342363B2 (en) 2004-10-12 2013-01-01 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Compact spray device
US20080023497A1 (en) * 2005-01-10 2008-01-31 Hyso Technology Llc Elongated nozzle configured for use with automated dispensers such as door handle sprayers and the like
US20080266800A1 (en) * 2007-04-30 2008-10-30 Lankston Robert J Heat sink with surface-formed vapor chamber base
US8381951B2 (en) * 2007-08-16 2013-02-26 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Overcap for a spray device
US20090045218A1 (en) * 2007-08-16 2009-02-19 Helf Thomas A Overcap for a spray device
US7878371B2 (en) 2008-09-04 2011-02-01 Hyso Technology Llc Controllable door handle sanitizer
US9108782B2 (en) 2012-10-15 2015-08-18 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. Dispensing systems with improved sensing capabilities
US20140191732A1 (en) * 2013-01-09 2014-07-10 Richtek Technology Corp. Bootstrap circuit and method for controlling the same
US9093914B2 (en) * 2013-01-09 2015-07-28 Richtek Technology Corp. Bootstrap circuit and method for controlling the same

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
USRE29117E (en) Automatic spray dispenser with integrated test apparatus
US3837532A (en) Automatic spray dispenser with integrated test apparatus
US7611030B2 (en) Apparatus for hands-free dispensing of a measured quantity of material
US4063664A (en) Device for indicating when automatic, periodic operation has emptied an aerosol container
US20040074935A1 (en) Olfactory stimulating material dispensing apparatus
US3739944A (en) Automatic periodically actuated spray dispenser
US6390329B1 (en) Apparatus for hands-free dispensing of a measured quantity of material
EP1370304B1 (en) Automatic air freshener with dynamically variable dispensing interval
US6264548B1 (en) Dispensing system and method
US3187949A (en) Spray dispenser for pressurized liquid having timer control
US6510962B1 (en) Programmable automatic pill dispenser
US3543122A (en) Automatic aerosol dispenser
RU2007117742A (en) ROOM SPRAY DEVICE
AU2002248601A1 (en) Automatic air freshener with dynamically variable dispensing interval
JPS63500357A (en) Methods and equipment for dispensing flowable materials
NL9400660A (en) Dispenser for an aerosol.
CA2647897A1 (en) Electronic aerosol device
US10450127B2 (en) Aerosol dispensing apparatus
US5329117A (en) Device for dispensing predetermined dosages of flowable material
US3851127A (en) Hot liquid dispenser reverse flow sensor with check valve slider and magnetically operated switch
JPS59209570A (en) Dispenser for fluid
EP2911706B1 (en) Improved indication sequence for energy efficient volatile material dispensers
GB2134284A (en) Automatic sampling device
US2773218A (en) Liquid dispensing mechanisms
TH9026B (en) Disinfectant and deodorizing device for urinal